Japanese screen icon Takuya Kimura recently shared a remarkable account of an airborne encounter with Japan’s current Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, during a domestic flight last year. The unexpected meeting, detailed on Kimura’s radio programme, revealed the Prime Minister to be a long-time admirer, adding a dramatic, human element to the usually rigid world of Japanese politics and celebrity.
The incident occurred while the superstar, known for his roles in classic dramas like Long Vacation, was travelling with veteran comedian Akashiya Sanma to the Noto Peninsula for a television special. Kimura recounted the heightened security at Haneda Airport, noting the unusual presence of security detail surrounding their flight, which quickly became clear when Prime Minister Takaichi boarded the same aircraft.
Unprecedented Encounter at 30,000 Feet
During the journey, the gravity of the situation became apparent when a member of the Prime Minister’s entourage approached the celebrities. The aide politely inquired if the Prime Minister might offer a personal greeting. Kimura, who was masked at the time and seated beside the highly esteemed Sanma, initially assumed the request was solely directed at the comedian, given his seniority in the entertainment industry.
However, when Takaichi approached their seats, the conversation flowed easily, starting with a connection over the Prime Minister’s and Sanma’s shared birthplace of Nara. When Kimura lowered his mask to properly salute the political leader, Takaichi’s reaction was one of genuine surprise and delight. Kimura recalled the Prime Minister exclaiming, “It’s Takuya Kimura! This feels absolutely like a dream.”
The interaction reached its peak just as the flight was concluding. As passengers prepared to disembark, Prime Minister Takaichi paused near the actor and made a specific, memorable declaration. She revealed that Kimura’s inaugural photo book remained a “treasured possession” in her collection, solidifying her status as a devoted, long-term fan of the celebrity.
The Power of Star Status
Kimura reflected on the incident on the air on June 11, describing the flight as “very interesting.” The unexpected show of celebrity fandom from a high-ranking politician instantly sparked widespread discussion across Japanese social media platforms. Netizens expressed amazement at the enduring and pervasive appeal of the entertainment legend.
This crossing of paths between a political figurehead and a pop culture icon underscores the profound influence figures like Kimura hold in Japanese society, transcending typical boundaries of power and profession.
The journey to the Noto Peninsula—a region that has faced significant challenges, including the devastating 2024 earthquake—highlights how public figures from both media and government often converge on areas of national interest, providing content and visibility. While the public’s fascination often revolves around these lighter, personal interactions, they offer a rare glimpse into the private lives and preferences of those in power.
Such anecdotes reassure the public that, despite their significant responsibilities, political leaders remain grounded in popular culture, sharing similar interests and icons as the constituents they represent. The humorous incident demonstrates the universal nature of celebrity fandom, proving even the most guarded public figures can be starstruck.
